Shaped Nappies
The Modern Cloth version of a square nappy. Shaped nappies, also called "fitteds," fitted cloth diapers are hourglass shaped, similar to disposables, and will have elastics along the legs, and probably front and back as well. Shaped cloth nappies are made from several layers of absorbent material and are shaped to fit round your baby and usually fasten using velcro, poppers or a nappy nippa. The core of the diaper is called the soaker. Depending upon the absorbency of the diaper, you may need an additional lay-in soaker. A lay-in soaker (extra layer of absorbent fabric) lays inside the diaper and will touch the baby's bottom. A waterproof wrap is required to cover the nappy to prevent wetness leaking through to the clothing. The shaped cloth nappy is probably the most leak-proof of nappy designs, as the absorbent fabric covers the whole nappy area and there are two barriers at the waist and legs to stop leaks: the nappy and the wrap. Thus, the shaped nappy is most suited for the night. They are easy to put on, and come in cute prints if you want your baby to go coverless. They take longer to dry than prefolds or other diapers that come apart or unfold. (Some are made with a soaker "flap" sewn in just one spot in the diaper so that the diaper will dry faster).
Shaped nappies come in two kinds. One-size and multi-size. One size shaped nappies are single sized nappies that can be folded and adjusted to fit perfectly as your baby grows into a toddler. A multi-size shaped nappy pack includes nappies in increasing sizes to accommodate for your baby’s growth. Both kinds can be used from birth to potty training. However, your babies’ shape changes as they age, and some may outgrow the one-size nappy. So, though the multi-size nappy pack costs more, it’s best to consider both options carefully before deciding on a choice. Don’t worry about the expense, though! Cloth nappies can be put to other uses around the home, and even sold second hand after a good wash!
Shaped Nappies - general
*Easier to use than flat nappies.
*Elastication at legs and waist gives best containment.
*Sized to give best fit without too much bulk.
*Padded between the legs for best absorption.
*Some fitted nappies have a sewn in stay dry nappy liner.
*Slower to dry than flat nappies.
*Easy fastening.
Shaped Nappies - onesize
*One size fits most babies from birth to potty.
*Compromise on fit compared to sized nappies - may be bulky for newborns, and may get outgrown by tall babies.
*More expensive than flat nappies, but less than sized nappies. Suitable for more than one in nappies at same time, particularly if different ages.
Shaped Nappies - sized
*More expensive overall than flat nappies or one sized nappies.
Wraps are needed with these nappies.
They are not waterproof and do require the use of a diaper cover, herein lies one of their advantages! You decide: wool, fleece, or PUL covers; some parents even decide to go coverless, usually indoors.
PlaySafe about Shaped Nappies
We love these nappies. Shaped diapers are probably the cloth diaper with the widest variety of options to choose from. You can have a very basic fitted made of cotton or flannel and a sewn in soaker, or you can have a very expensive fitted that is made with bamboo velour and a snap in soaker with an additional doubler. They are more absorbent than prefolds and require no folding. Not to mention fitteds often come in cute prints, making them almost irresistible. While fitteds may cost more than other diapers, many moms feel the price is well worth it. They are absorbent, soft, and cute. If you find a really absorbent fitted you can use it without a cover and enjoy the cuteness and they are very easy to use.
